At least eight people were injured on Tuesday in a human avalanche at a sports center in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, where in the coming hours will be held the inauguration ceremony of the new president of the country, the hitherto deputy president, William Ruto.
The Kenyan Police spokesman, Bruno Shioso, stressed that the facilities "are already full" and added that "more people have continued to flock to the place", after which the incident was recorded. The authorities have deployed more officers in the area to control the situation.
Police sources at the scene stressed that "the situation is under control", after which the closure of the gates was confirmed, according to the Kenyan newspaper 'The Star'. "To avoid logistical challenges, the public is requested to seek alternative ways to view the proceedings, especially from the comfort of their homes," Shioso said.
Authorities have set up screens outside the venue, Moi International Sports Center-Kasarani, for those affected by the closure of gates. Nairobi had deployed a heavy security detail both in the area and on the city streets to ensure the safety of the event.
Kenya's Supreme Court last week confirmed Ruto's victory in the election despite complaints from former Prime Minister and Raila Odinga, who had the backing of outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta. After the announcement of the results, Kenyatta assured that he would ensure a smooth transition, although he did not congratulate his vice president on his victory.
"I will hand over power with a smile because it is my constitutional duty to do so, but my leader is Raila Odinga," the president, who distanced himself from Ruto after his 2017 re-election, later said. However, the now president-elect remained in office because the incumbent did not have the authority to remove him.
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